The Five of Wands of the Minor Arcana of the Tarot is the fifth card of the Suit of Wands. It follows the Four of Wands. It is the embodiment of imitation, competition, and struggle.
The Symbolism of the Five of Wands Tarot Card
This card is represented by a group of five youths who are brandishing staves that look suspiciously like wands. It is unclear whether this is an indication of sport of some kind, or a real battle. The ground is flat and unremarkable, and the sky is clear. It is obvious that this battle, sport or not, takes place outside.
The General Interpretation of the Five of Wands Card
When appearing in a spread, this card implies competition or struggle of some kind. This might be a strenuous fight in the pursuit of riches, and perhaps even fame and fortune. The Five of Wands does not necessarily guarantee success, but it certainly indicates a struggle.
It is possible that this card indicates a ‘sham fight’ instead. In this case, it is a card of imitation, and possibly of sport. This usually implies a group activity, as depicted on the card.
The Inner Meaning of the Five of Wands in Tarot
The Five of Wands is the image of being alert and engaged. When this card appears, it can indicate that the individual is ready to fight for what he or she feels is most important. It suggests that a defense to protect what is perceived as sacred may be necessary. The individual is ready and willing to do this.
On another level, this card also suggests that aid may be necessary to complete this task. One may need to enlist the help of friends, and certainly more than one of them. This should not be seen as a weakness; rather, it suggests that acknowledging the need for help is a mark of strength.
The Five of Wands can also be a more materialistic card. It may imply a search or hunt for wealth, fame, and fortune. It brings a warning against putting too much faith in these things, for they are both fleeting and unnecessary. Those who place value on these things are destined for disappointment, for they cannot last forever.
The Six of Wands follows this card.
As a Tarot reader, you may choose to read those cards that appear reversed (upside down) in a reading as having unique meanings, meanings which are different from those same cards in their upright positions. It is not necessary, but using reversed meanings can add a new dimension to Tarot card readings.
If you do choose to use reversed meanings, the Four of Wands in its reversed position indicates that moves may be delayed or surrounded by problems. If you visit friends or relatives, keep the visit short and don't send your entire vacation or holiday in their home.
The Four of Wands of the Minor Arcana of the Tarot is the fourth card of the Suit of Wands. It follows the Three of Wands. It is the embodiment of harmony, prosperity, and peace. Often, this sense involves an entire group of people.
The Symbolism of the Four of Wands Tarot Card
This card is represented by four wands which form what appears to be a wedding arbor. Unlike most of the other cards of this suit, the wands appear stable enough to stand on their own; not a single wand is supported by a person. They are hung with greenery. Again differing from other cards of the same suit, the people are in the background, which is very busy. The two people closest to the wands seem very happy, waving their bouquets in the air.
The General Interpretation of the Four of Wands Card
When appearing in a spread, this card implies harmony and positive feelings. It generally conveys a sense that all the hard work of the past has finally paid off, and the fruits of labor can now be enjoyed. This labor can take many forms; it could be the search for a new or better job or perhaps the birth of a child after a long pregnancy and labor. This card's meaning is highly dependent upon the individual involved.
On another level, this card represents a time of repose. Now that the work has been successfully completed, all those involved are able to take their rest. This is both welcome and refreshing.
The Inner Meaning of the Four of Wands in Tarot
The Four of Wands is the image of prosperity in the suit of Wands. This card represents a time when all that has been worked for is now perfected. Peace and harmony are the very natural result of this. It is a time of concord, a time to come together with neighbors and celebrate what has been accomplished. This is not the time for work and effort.
This card implies a sense of belonging. It may also indicate a physical place that engenders this feeling. This might be a home or place of refuge. It might be a haven, such as a church or temple, or it might simply be a place where the individual feels safe and secure. The Four of Wands is all these things.
The Five of Wands follows this card.
Some Tarot readers read any card that appears reversed (upside down) as having an alternate meaning to the same card that appears upright in the same spread. Some readers take these Tarot cards and turn them around so they are upright, reading them as normal. You can do whichever feels right to you. Reading reversed meanings is a personal choice, but whichever choice you make, be consistant. You don't want to confuse yourself and your cards.
If you do choose to read reversed meanings when interpreting a Tarot spread, then the Three of Wands in its reversed position indicates that business matters will be delayed or problematic. Save yourself the hassle and wait until later to tackle these issues.
